what did trump do to weed
President Donald Trump has taken notable steps on cannabis policy, particularly in his current term, by directing the rescheduling of marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III via executive action. This move, signed around December 2025, initiates a process to treat marijuana more like drugs with accepted medical uses, such as ketamine, easing research and business restrictions without full federal legalization.
Key Recent Action
Trump's Executive Order instructs the DOJ, HHS, and DEA to begin formal rescheduling proceedings under the Controlled Substances Act. This represents a shift from his first term's mixed record, where he signed the 2018 Farm Bill legalizing hemp (under 0.3% THC) but rescinded Obama-era protections for state programs. The order doesn't override state laws or decriminalize possession immediately but signals federal tolerance.
First Term Context
During 2017-2021, Trump's administration upheld federal prohibition despite his campaign support for state rights on marijuana. He approved the Farm Bill, enabling hemp-derived products like THCa (which converts to THC when heated), indirectly expanding legal access. A deal with Sen. Cory Gardner protected Colorado's industry from federal interference.
Forum and Public Reactions
Online discussions mix optimism and skepticism; Reddit threads highlight Trump's 2024 stance favoring state-led reform and rescheduling. Critics worry about potential reversals, while supporters praise business-friendly changes amid state legalization trends. Some view the Farm Bill as unintentionally "legalizing weed" via loopholes.
Implications
Rescheduling to Schedule III could boost medical research, tax benefits for cannabis firms, and real estate for growers, but faces GOP pushback on safety concerns. As of early 2026, the process continues without final DEA approval.
TL;DR: Trump advanced weed reform by ordering Schedule III rescheduling in Dec 2025 and legalizing hemp in 2018, balancing federal caution with pro- business shifts.
Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.